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An intergovernmental organization established in 1951, IOM is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society.

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  Brazil  

Facts and Figures

IOM Member State since 2004
Capital: Brasilia
Population (2011): 196.7 million
Area: 8.55 million sq km
Major Language: Portuguese
Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
GDP per Capita PPP (2010): USD 11,210
HDI Rank (2011): 84 of 187
Remittances (2011 estimate): USD 4,254 million
Net Migration Rate (2010-2015): -0.2 migrants / 1,000 population
Immigrants (2010): 0.4%
Women as a Percentage of Immigrants (2010): 46.3 %
Population under 15 (2011): 24.9%
Adult HIV Prevalence (2009): 0.3% to 0.6%



Sources and Definitions

Latest News


Migration Issues

The Brazilian population has been greatly influenced by distinct waves of immigrants. Much of this immigration, in turn, has been tied to economic factors. In the 1990s, Brazil received an important number of immigrants (regular and irregular) from South Korea and from Latin America, especially from Bolivia and Peru. Although the government has not encouraged regional immigration, Brazil has become an important, attractive destination for Latin Americans from various socio-economic backgrounds.

The emigration of Brazilians to foreign countries searching for a job is a phenomenon that became more apparent in the last decade, but the presence of Brazilians in bordering countries could already be detected two decades before. According to estimates, there are about three million Brazilians living abroad and 1.5 million foreigners in Brazil.

In the last years, more and more Brazilians have started obtaining tourist visas for Mexico; they then attempt to enter the United States via the Mexican border. The presence of Brazilians in EU countries, particularly in Portugal, Belgium and the United Kingdom, is on the rise. Authorities are discussing several initiatives related to linking nationals abroad and a new law for foreigners. Furthermore, trafficking in persons particularly women for sexual exploitation, irregular migration and health-related issues are increasingly important in Brazil.


Last updated:
Main text: 2006
Facts and figures: May 2012